Can I Get Orthodontic Insurance?
Having straight, properly aligned teeth can make a major difference in terms of general health and wellness. That is why Dr. Kellyn Hodges offers state-of-the-art orthodontics to people in the greater Philadelphia, PA area. Her team is also more than happy to discuss payment options for orthodontic care since the procedures can be a financial burden to some households.
Thankfully many people have dental coverage through their employer. That means they can get braces without any issue, right? Well, it’s a bit more complicated than that. Let’s go over some basics when it comes to insurance coverage for orthodontic care.
Isn’t Orthodontic Care Covered by My Dental Plan?
Before we delve into the more granular issues related to orthodontic insurance, we want to state the following up front: just because you have medical and/or dental coverage doesn’t mean that orthodontic procedures are covered.
Medical insurance rarely covers dental procedures, and even a dental plan may not cover orthodontic care. It’s important to check with your insurance provider about the nature and extent of your coverage.
Orthodontic Plans for Children and Adults
Next, we should note that orthodontic coverage can help children, teens, and adults get the procedures they need for a straight, healthy smile. There are advantages to getting the orthodontic procedure performed earlier, but it’s always good to have properly aligned smile no matter what age you are. Check if there are age restrictions on orthodontic coverage if you have it or are comparison shopping for it.
Dental and Orthodontic Plans Through Your Employer
Most of our patients in the Philadelphia area tend to have some form of insurance coverage through their employer. Medical coverage is common, though there may also be dental coverage available through your job.
Be sure to check with your insurance provider about coverage for orthodontic care, how much is covered, and if there are any restrictions. The orthodontic coverage can vary from provider to provider. Your benefits manager at work can also be helpful in understanding your coverage.
Individual Dental and Orthodontic Insurance
If you do not have orthodontic coverage through your employer, you can purchase an individual dental plan or orthodontic coverage. These plans are available through the market, and will vary from provider to provider.
While it may take some effort, having orthodontic coverage can reduce your out-of-pocket cost for all sorts of orthodontia, whether it’s meant to cover a child’s treatment or an adult’s treatment.
Comparison Shopping and What to Consider
When comparing orthodontic coverage, keep the following questions and topics in mind as you make a final decision:
- Does the dental plan even cover orthodontic care?
- Does the dental plan cover the orthodontic procedure needed?
- Who are the orthodontists in that provider’s network and are they reputable?
- When does the coverage begin?
- How much is the deductible?
- How much is the co-pay?
- Are these certain limitations on orthodontic coverage?
- How much will I save compared to out-of-pocket costs?
- Are there any annual costs to consider?
We’re Here to Help
Paying for orthodontic care and finding affordable treatment shouldn’t be so difficult. That’s why we’re here to help. We can aid patients throughout the Philadelphia area learn more about orthodontic insurance, providers, and networks. We can also offer insight into dental financing options if needed.
Learn More About Orthodontic Care
To learn more about getting your teeth straightened and experiencing great dental health, be sure to contact a skilled orthodontist. Dr. Kellyn Hodges and her team can be reached by phone at (215) 883-0611.